Eastern Swing

Background

The Eastern Swing, originally called the Lindy Hop, was born in south of the United States, and is the most famous American Folk Dance. The best forms of Swing included the Charleston, Black Bottom, Shag and The Lindy Hop. In the early 40s, these forms consolidated into what was called the Lindy.

The Lindy was first danced as a modified box step, with a slight shuffling movement. The shuffling movement of the original Lindy can be likened to today’s single rhythm in Swing. As the shuffling, or single time rhythm progressed, it evolved into both the double and triple time Lindy. Today all three form the basis of good Swing Dancing.

About 55 years ago, the Swing was danced in the Harlem Section of New York City at a time when such band greats as Chic Webb, Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman were holding Sway. It was in Harlem where the swing took on most of today’s popular steps and styling.

For many years now the better establishments have frowned upon the wilder forms of dancing the Swing because the acrobatics involved limited the number of people who could dance at one time. It is possible however, to do a fine swing in a relatively small area, providing the dancers are better than average and have an assortment of dance breaks. There is no question that the dance will always be around it. All parts of the country you will find dancers adding their own interpretations and changes of style. All dances, in order to survive, must be built up from a firm basic movement so that adlibbing and complete freedom of expression can be interpreted into the dance. The Swing has these attributes.

Music and Tempo

The Bronze Swing music is written in 4/4 time and should be played at a tempo of 34 -36 measures per minute for examinations and competitions.

Style Characteristics

The Swing is a Sport Dance that does not move along the line of dance. Free rhythmic interpretation is characteristic, using single, double or triple rhythms. A relaxed shuffling movement and use of upper body sway is also used to highlight the Swing.